LocationsUNDP Launches Malakal Youth Center: A Step Towards Peace and Empowerment
September 24, 2024
Acting Governor, Deng Joh Angok and UNDP programme Advisor Natacha Kunama officially Inaugurating the Youth Center
South Sudan, a nation emerging from decades of conflict and instability, is striving to establish a peaceful and inclusive society. The Upper Nile region, particularly the state capital Malakal, has been significantly impacted by internal strife and the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Young women and men in this area often face marginalization in decision-making processes, intergenerational gaps, and age-discriminative cultural norms
In response to these challenges, UNDP has launched a youth center as part of its Peace and Community Cohesion project. This center aims to create a safe space for youth to meet, discuss their collective concerns, and engage in peacebuilding activities that enhance social cohesion among different youth groups
The Youth Center Conference Hall
A Foundation of Mutual Understanding
A crucial step toward the opening of the youth center involved establishing a mutual understanding between the youth steering committee and relevant government authorities regarding the management of the center. To facilitate this process, the Peace and Community Cohesion project implemented a two-day intergenerational dialogue in Malakal, fostering respect, understanding, and empowerment among youth. This initiative is designed to bridge divides and strengthen relationships among different age groups in the community.
The launch ceremony of the youth center served to promote awareness of its objectives among various youth groups and senior community members, offering a platform to enhance social cohesion by bringing diverse groups together. Themed “Empowering Youth to Promote Peaceful Coexistence and Enhance Youth Leadership,” the event was attended by high-ranking officials from the Upper Nile State government.
Addressing Youth Unemployment and Violence
Youth unemployment has often been linked to rising lawlessness in the state, including gang violence that leads to attacks, looting, and general insecurity. Against this backdrop, Natacha Kunama, UNDP Programme Manager for Peace and Community Cohesion, emphasized that the center aims to address these pressing issues.
“This center will serve as a safe space for young women and men to come together, share their concerns, and actively engage in peacebuilding activities,” Kunama stated. She highlighted that the center would serve as a platform for community dialogue, addressing the challenges posed by conflict and instability.
“The youth center is not just a facility; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and youth leadership. It provides a safe space for future leaders to come together, promote dialogue, and drive development in a region that has faced significant challenges due to conflict and instability,” she added.
UNDP programme Advisor Natacha Kunama giving remarks during the launch
Encouragement from Local Leaders
Gatluak Reath, chairperson of the youth center management committee, confirmed that the center would not host political rallies or activities. Instead, it aims to empower youth economically, fostering peacebuilding initiatives.
“The youth center is a free space that will not allow rallies or any political activity. It will generate income for the youth of Malakal and beyond, supporting peacebuilding efforts across Upper Nile State,” Reath explained.
Deng Joh Angok, The Deputy Governor of Upper Nile State, also encouraged the youth to take initiative and create ideas that would benefit their communities. He argued that sustainable development could not occur without the active participation of the youth.
“The youth of Upper Nile are not involved in crimes. They can bring forth good ideas essential for the development of Upper Nile State. I urge you, the youth, to collaborate with the state government for development,” Angok stated.
Conclusion
Upper Nile State has experienced cycles of violence since the conflict outbreak in 2013, leading to significant displacement and economic crisis. Targeted killings have been reported in Malakal among various tribes even in recent months. However, with the establishment of the Malakal Youth Center, there is renewed hope for fostering dialogue, leadership, and ultimately, a more peaceful and prosperous future for the youth in this region. Through collaboration and empowerment, the center aims to transform the narrative for the youth of Upper Nile State, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.